GB1 Fundamentals · Adults

Adult Jiu-Jitsu for beginners in Upland

GB1 is where every adult starts at Gracie Barra Upland: the building blocks of Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu and self-defense, taught step by step for every age and fitness level.

Book a trial class See class times

Instructor teaching an adult Jiu-Jitsu technique to a student

Jiu-Jitsu for everyone

Adult Jiu-Jitsu classes for all skill levels

Since the founding of Gracie Barra, Master Carlos Gracie Jr. has championed “Jiu-Jitsu for Everyone.” For more than 30 years, our adult classes have welcomed people of every background and skill level, with a curriculum designed to guide you through the art step by step.

At Gracie Barra Upland, the Adult Jiu-Jitsu program is a path to physical fitness, mental resilience and a supportive community. The curriculum focuses on self-defense, steady progression and a positive mindset, whether your goal is self-improvement, stress relief or reaching the highest level of the art.

Adult students drilling Jiu-Jitsu on the mats

What you will learn

The fundamentals, one class at a time

GB1 is the starting point of adult Jiu-Jitsu at Gracie Barra. It covers the essential positions and techniques of Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu, so you build a solid base before moving on to advanced training.

Self-defense

Practical techniques to stay safe, control distance and get out of dangerous situations.

Positions and escapes

How to stay calm under pressure, escape bad positions and reach dominant ones.

Basic submissions

The core chokes and joint locks, with a focus on control and safety for your partner.

Fitness and mindset

A full-body workout that builds strength, flexibility, focus and confidence.

Your next steps

From GB1 to black belt

Once you have the basics, the curriculum grows with you: GB2 Advanced adds advanced techniques and positional sparring, and the GB3 Black Belt Program refines your game on the way to black belt.

Prefer training without the gi? Check out our No-Gi program.

All programs

Adult students warming up during a Jiu-Jitsu class

Book your trial class.

No experience needed. Fill out the form, pick a program and a date, and the Gracie Barra Upland team will email you everything you need for your first class.

Classes for kids, teens and adults
Beginner-friendly, certified Gracie Barra instructors
1131 W 9th St, Upland, CA

FAQ

Starting adult Jiu-Jitsu

Do I need to be in shape before I start?

No. You do not need to get in shape first or have any martial arts experience. Classes are adapted to your level, and your fitness improves as you train.

I'm nervous about my first class. What should I expect?

Almost everyone feels a little nervous at first. Our instructors and training partners will guide you through the warm-up and techniques, and you will train at your own pace.

When are the adult Jiu-Jitsu classes?

Gracie Barra Upland offers morning and evening adult classes throughout the week. See the current times on our calendar.

How do I sign up?

Book a trial class with the form on this page. You will receive an email with your class details and what to bring.

The mat is ready when you are.

Beginners are always welcome. Book a trial class or call us and we will help you choose the right program.

Book a trial class Call (626) 226-2494

What our students say

    
 
 
         
   Dennise Alaniz 
 
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. Great facility, great staff and very informative. Daughter can not stop talking about her first day and wants to continue going after her first session, she had the best time.
  
 
        
   Marco 
 
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. Amazing gym! The culture here is unbeatable everyone is supportive, motivated, and genuinely great to train with. Whether you’re looking to improve your skills, stay fit, or prepare for competition, this is the perfect place. The training partners push you, the environment lifts you, and you always leave better than you came in. Easily a 10/10.
  
 
        
   Claudia Barroud2n 
 
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. Great experience! My kids had so much 😊
  
 
        
   Raul villegas 
 
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. Gracie Barra has truly been a game changer for me. From day one, the staff was incredibly welcoming, and Coach Alexia played a huge role in my decision to join. She shared how Jiu-Jitsu transformed her own life and what it continues to do for others.

I was immediately hooked. Now, I’m starting to train over six times a week. The gym is always clean, organized, and filled with a positive, respectful atmosphere. Since joining, my stress levels have dropped, and I’ve grown so much, physically and mentally. I’m excited to continue this journey and see where it takes me! I recommend this facility and adults program to anyone.
  
 
        
   Natalee Palma 
 
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. My daughter and I love Gracie Barra upland! All of the professors/ coaches are so patient and kind with the kids. The facility is very clean, which is always a plus and the fans keep the entire place cool for everyone. We love coach Alexia, she’s the sweetest and is always willing to help when we have any questions :)  Professor Paulo, Richard, and Jason are amazing and attentive. Coaches Evan, Lana, Larissa are so patient and great with the kids :) Nylah loves you all <3
  
 
        
   Katherine Duran 
 
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. I was really nervous about starting Jiu Jitsu but Alexia was there to answer any questions I had and was there help me along my first classes, showing me techniques and helping me through the warm ups. This place is amazing. Everyone is so nice and patient. I love going here and the coaches and Alexia are amazing. I'm very grateful to have found a welcoming place.
  
 
        
   Larissa Gonçalves 
 
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. fun classes with great ladies, qualified professionals and an excellent structure
  
 
  
  
 
 
     Verified by Trustindex  Trustindex verified that these reviews were published on Gracie Barra Upland Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu & Self Defense's Google Business Profile. Learn more